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  • [28th July 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: How is India preparing against GLOF events?

    PYQ Relevance:

    [UPSC 2024] What is disaster resilience? How is it determined? Describe various elements of a resilience framework. Also mention the global targets of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).

    Linkage: The article explicitly states that the NDMA has “markedly accelerated its efforts to manage these increasing risks” and initiated a “proactive shift from mere post-disaster response to risk reduction through its Committee on Disaster Risk Reduction (CoDRR)”. This directly links to the concept of “disaster resilience” and “Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR),” which are central to India’s preparedness strategy for GLOF events.

     

    Mentor’s Comment:  On July 8, 2025, Nepal experienced a major Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), which triggered a flash flood along the Lende River, destroying a China-built friendship bridge and disabling four hydropower plants, cutting off 8% of Nepal’s power supply. This catastrophe highlights the growing threat of GLOFs due to glacial melt from rising temperatures in the Himalayas. The incident has raised concerns over the lack of trans-boundary early warning systems, particularly between China and Nepal. It also drew attention to India’s vulnerability, as the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) contains 7,500 glacial lakes, many at high risk of GLOF due to climate change, poor monitoring infrastructure, and lack of early warning systems. India’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has responded by launching a national programme targeting 195 at-risk glacial lakes, focusing on hazard assessment, early warning systems, risk mitigation, and community engagement.

    Today’s editorial analyses the major Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in Himalaya region. This topic is important for GS Paper III (Environment) in the UPSC mains exam.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    Recently, Nepal faced a major Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF), which led to a sudden flash flood along the Lende River.  

    What are GLOFs?

    • GLOFs are sudden floods caused by the breach of natural or man-made dams holding glacial lakes, releasing large volumes of water.
    • Himalayan Spread: The Himalayas across India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet host thousands of glacial lakes, many near international borders. India has 7,500+ glacial lakes, with 200+ deemed potentially dangerous.

     

    What are their transboundary risks in the Himalayas?

    • Trans-boundary Risk: GLOFs from upstream countries (e.g. China) can impact downstream nations (India, Nepal, Bhutan) without early warning. Eg: The July 2024 Tibetan GLOF damaged Nepal’s Rasuwagadhi hydropower project with no prior alert.
    • Lack of Data Sharing: Minimal real-time data exchange between neighbours hampers early warning and risk management. Eg: Nepal got no warning from China during the 2024 GLOF.

    How has climate change increased GLOF frequency in the IHR?

    • Accelerated Glacier Melting: Rising temperatures cause glacier retreat and formation of unstable glacial lakes. Eg: Milam Glacier, Uttarakhand shows rapid retreat, increasing GLOF risk.
    • Extreme Precipitation: Intense rainfall from climate change can overfill lakes, causing breaches. Eg: Gya GLOF (2014) in Ladakh followed heavy rainfall, damaging infrastructure.
    • Increased Landslides: Thawing permafrost and unstable slopes trigger landslides into lakes, displacing water and causing GLOFs. Eg: 2013 Chorabari Glacier landslide near Kedarnath worsened the flood impact.

    What measures has India taken for GLOF mitigation?

    • Early Warning Systems (EWS): Installed to detect rising water levels and trigger alerts. Eg: EWS at South Lhonak Lake, Sikkim before 2023 GLOF.
    • Satellite Monitoring: ISRO-NRSC use remote sensing to track glacial lakes. Eg: Monitored via Bhuvan portal in Ladakh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh.
    • Risk Mapping: NMSHE identifies high-risk areas for targeted intervention. Eg: Studies in Kinnaur and Chamoli flagged vulnerable lakes.
    • Engineering Measures: Lake drainage and structural control to prevent overflow. Eg: Work at Tsho Rolpa Lake (Nepal) as a replicable model.
    • Community Preparedness: NDMA and states run drills and awareness programs. Eg: Mock drills in Uttarkashi and Kullu.

    What are the gaps? 

    • Weak Early Warning Systems (EWS): India lacks real-time sensors, automated sirens, and alert mechanisms. Eg: No early alerts during Chamoli disaster (2021).
    • Low Community Preparedness: Most villages in Sikkim and Uttarakhand lack evacuation protocols and disaster training.
    • Poor Transboundary Coordination: Minimal data sharing with China hinders early action in regions like Arunachal Pradesh.
    • Infrastructure Vulnerability: Bridges and dams not designed for GLOFs.
      Eg: Chungthang dam breach (2023) exposed weak infrastructure.
    • Limited Scientific Capacity: Shortage of glaciologists, risk modelers, and ground validation limits NDMA’s effectiveness.

    Way forward: 

    •  Strengthen Early Warning Systems: Deploy real-time sensors, sirens, and automated alerts in high-risk zones.
    • Enhance Transboundary Cooperation: Establish formal data-sharing agreements with China, Nepal, and Bhutan.
    • Build Local Preparedness: Conduct regular community drills, awareness drives, and evacuation planning.
    • Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Design dams, bridges, and power projects to withstand GLOF surges.
    • Invest in Research & Capacity: Train glaciologists, improve satellite-ground integration, and support Himalayan climate studies.

  • Not the way Criminalising Adolescent Sex will undermine the aim of the POCSO Act

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 is under scrutiny as the Supreme Court examines whether consensual sex between adolescents aged 16–18 should be decriminalised.

    What are the issues related to criminalising adolescent consent as per SC?

    • Misuse of Law Against Teens: Criminalising consensual sex between 16–18-year-olds leads to misuse of the law, treating teens in mutual relationships as offenders. Courts observed this goes against the protective intent of the POCSO Act.

    • Denial of Autonomy: Adolescents lose the right to make consensual choices, as their consent is legally invalid. Under Section 2(d) of POCSO, all under 18 are considered children, ignoring their autonomy.

    What legal provisions support the criminalisation of adolescent consent?

    • Evolving Capacity of Adolescents: The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), to which India is a signatory, recognises that adolescents have evolving capacities. Eg: International norms suggest that children above 16 may have sufficient maturity to make informed decisions, including about consensual relationships.
    • Madras High Court (Vijayalakshmi vs. State, 2021): The court observed that consensual relationships among adolescents should not be criminalised when the age difference is modest (within 5 years). Eg: A 17-year-old girl and her 19-year-old partner in a consensual relationship were seen as victims of misuse of POCSO.
    • Amicus Curiae Submissions to the Supreme Court (2024): Senior Advocate Indira Jaising suggested reading an exception into the POCSO Act to decriminalise consensual sexbetween adolescents aged 16–18. Eg: She argued that consent between sexually mature adolescents should not be labelled as abuse under law.
    • Law Commission of India Report (2023): While not favouring a change in the age of consent, the Commission recommended “guided judicial discretion” in cases involving 16–18-year-olds in consensual relationships. Eg: Judges may consider the consensual nature while deciding on punishment, avoiding harsh sentences for adolescent partners.

    Note:  Amicus Curiae is a Latin term meaning “friend of the court.” It refers to a person or organization not a party to the case, but who offers relevant information, expertise, or insight to assist the court in making its decision.

    What about the POSCO? 

    ​​POCSO stands for the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012. It is a comprehensive law enacted by the Indian Parliament to protect children under 18 years from sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and pornography.

    Case Study: 

    • United Kingdom – “Gillick Competence” Doctrine: The UK follows the principle of Gillick competence, where children under 16 can legally consent to medical treatment (including sexual health services) if they are mature enough to understand the consequences. The Sexual Offences Act 2003 criminalises sex under 16, but the law is applied with discretion, especially in mutual consensual relationships between teenagers close in age.
    • Canada – Close-in-Age Exemption: Under Canada’s Criminal Code, the age of consent is 16, but there is a “close-in-age exemption”. Eg: A 14–15-year-old can legally consent to sex with a partner less than 5 years older if the relationship is not exploitative. This balances protection from abuse with recognition of adolescent development and autonomy.

    Way forward: 

    • Legislative Clarity with Close-in-Age Exemption: Amend the POCSO Act to introduce a close-in-age exemption (e.g., age difference ≤5 years) for consensual adolescent relationships between 16–18 years, as suggested by courts like the Madras High Court. This ensures protection from exploitation while avoiding unjust criminalisation.
    • Comprehensive Adolescent Legal Awareness Programs: Launch school-based sensitisation campaigns to educate teenagers on consent, law, rights, and consequences of sexual activity. This promotes informed decision-making and reduces misuse or misunderstanding of the law.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2023] The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society”. Illustrate with special reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty.

    Linkage: The debate surrounding the POCSO Act and the age of consent for consensual adolescent relationships directly exemplifies how legal frameworks, and indeed the Constitution, must adapt to the realities of a “progressive society”. The call for exemptions or caveats to the POCSO Act, especially when “normal adolescent behaviour” is criminalized.

  • Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana

    Why in the News?

    The National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has launched the ‘Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana’, aimed at improving legal aid for defence personnel and their families.

    Back2Basics: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)

    • Established under: Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 (in force from 1995)
    • Mandate: Ensure free, competent legal aid to the socially and economically disadvantaged
    • Leadership:
      • Patron-in-Chief: Chief Justice of India
      • Executive Chairman: Senior Supreme Court Judge
    • Core Functions:
      • Legal literacy campaigns
      • Lok Adalats for amicable dispute resolution
      • Legal aid in civil and criminal matters
      • Outreach in rural and vulnerable communities

    About Veer Parivar Sahayata Yojana:

    • Launched by: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
    • Objective: Provide legal assistance to defence personnel, ex-servicemen, and their families.
    • Key Features:
      • Legal Clinics: Set up at Zilla, Rajya, and Kendra Sainik Boards
      • Welfare–Legal Integration: Sainik Boards become legal service hubs
      • Paralegal Volunteers: Defence families encouraged to participate, enhancing local legal access
    • Legal Assistance includes:
      • Land and property disputes
      • Matrimonial and family matters
      • Service-related entitlements
      • Utility/civil grievances (e.g., billing disputes)
      • Support for personnel in remote/conflict zones

    Free Legal Aid in India:

    • Constitutional Backing
      • Article 21 (FR): Access to justice as part of the right to life
      • Article 39A (DPSP): Legal aid and equal justice, added via 42nd Amendment Act, 1976
    • Legal Framework:
      • Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987: Four-tier system—National, State, District, Taluka
      • Section 341, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023: Legal aid for indigent accused persons
    • Eligibility Criteria:
      • Women and children
      • Scheduled Castes/Scheduled Tribes
      • Persons with disabilities
      • Industrial workmen
      • Victims of disasters (natural or human-made)
      • Persons in custody or shelter homes
      • Economically weak (annual income:
        • Below ₹1 lakh generally
        • Below ₹5 lakh for Supreme Court cases)
    [UPSC 2020] In India, Legal Services Authorities provide free legal services to which of the following type of citizens?

    1. Person with an annual income of less than Rs 1,00,000

    2. Transgender with an annual income of less than Rs 2,00,000

    3. Member of Other Backward Classes (OBC) with an annual income of less than ₹ 3,00,000

    4. All Senior Citizens

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only * (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 and 4 only

     

  • Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) under POSH Act

    Why in the News?

    A student in Odisha, died by suicide after her sexual harassment complaint was rejected by her college’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), showing the urgent need for stronger grievance systems.

    About Internal Complaints Committee (ICC):

    • Legal Basis: Mandated under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act).
    • Applicability: Mandatory in all organizations with 10 or more employees.
    • Purpose: Provides a redressal mechanism to ensure a safe and dignified workplace for women.
    • Composition:
      • A Presiding Officer who is a senior woman employee.
      • At least two internal members with legal or social expertise.
      • One external member from an NGO or with knowledge of sexual harassment issues.
      • Minimum 50% of ICC members must be women.

    Powers and Functions:

    • Complaint Handling:
      • Accepts complaints within 3 months of the incident.
      • Offers conciliation (on request) or initiates a formal inquiry.
    • Inquiry Process:
      • Holds powers similar to a civil court (summon, evidence collection, sworn statements).
      • Must complete inquiry within 90 days.
    • Confidentiality: Identity of complainant, respondent, witnesses, and proceedings must be kept confidential.
    • Post-Inquiry Actions:
      • Recommends disciplinary action or closure.
      • Employer must act on recommendations within 60 days.
      • Assists in filing FIRs if the complainant seeks criminal action.

    Back2Basics: POSH Act, 2013

    • Full Form: The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
    • Background:
      • Originated from the Vishaka Guidelines (1997) issued by the Supreme Court.
      • Inspired by the Bhanwari Devi case and public pressure after the Nirbhaya case (2012).
    • Constitutional and Global Basis:
      • Upholds gender justice under Article 15.
      • Based on India’s commitment to CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women, 1979) (ratified in 1993).
    • Key Provisions
      • Workplace Scope: Includes private and public sectors, government offices, NGOs, informal sectors, and domestic work.
      • Definition of Harassment: Covers physical contact, unwelcome advances, sexually coloured remarks, explicit content, and verbal or non-verbal conduct.
      • Mandatory ICC: All organizations with 10+ employees must set up an Internal Complaints Committee.
      • Local Committee: District-level Local Committees must be set up for smaller workplaces or domestic workers.
    • Employer Responsibilities:
      • Conduct awareness sessions and training.
      • Ensure safety and publish the organization’s POSH policy.
    • Timelines:
      • Complaints must be filed within 3 months.
      • Inquiries must be completed within 90 days.
    • Penalties:
      • Fine of up to ₹50,000 for non-compliance.
      • Repeat violations can lead to license cancellation.

     

    [UPSC 2007] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Judge (Inquiry) Bill 2006 contemplates establishing a Judicial Council which will receive complaints against Judges of the Supreme Court, Chief Justices, and Judges.

    2. Under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, a woman can file a petition before a 1st Class Judicial Magistrate.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • Artform in News: Soharai Mural Paintings

    Why in the News?

    The second Kala Utsav 2025 at Rashtrapati Bhavan celebrated India’s tribal art, with artists from Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal showcasing Sohrai, Pattachitra, and Patua paintings.

    Artform in News: Soharai Mural Paintings

    About Sohrai Paintings:

    • Origin: Indigenous to Jharkhand, especially the Hazaribagh region.
    • Etymology: Derived from ‘Soro’ meaning “to drive away with a stick.”
    • Historical Roots: Traces back to the Meso-chalcolithic period (9000–5000 BC).
    • Archaeological Evidence: Similar rock paintings found at Isko Rock Shelter in Barkagaon.
    • Key Features of Sohrai Art:
      • Practiced By: Women of Kurmi, Santhal, Munda, Oraon, Agaria, and Ghatwal tribes.
      • Geographical Spread: Found in Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal.
      • Materials Used: Natural substances like charcoal, clay, and soil.
      • Themes: Celebrates nature—forests, rivers, animals—along with harvest and fertility.
      • Festival Link: Painted during the Sohrai festival, marking the harvest season and winter.
      • Ritual Role: Rice-gruel mandalas drawn to welcome cattle into homes.
      • GI Tag: Awarded in 2020 for Sohrai Khovar Painting.

    Back2Basics:

    Pattachitra Painting:

    Artform in News: Soharai Mural Paintings

    • Origin: Odisha, associated with the Jagannath Temple, Puri.
    • Material: Painted on cloth (Pata) coated with chalk powder and tamarind seed glue.
    • Colors Used: Made from vegetables, minerals, and earth sources.
    • Artistic Method:
      • No pencil outlines.
      • Borders are painted first.
      • Sketching is done with light red and yellow brushes.
      • Finished with lacquer coating for shine and durability.
    • Themes: Centered on Krishna Leela, Jagannath tales, and other mythological stories.

    Patua Painting:

    • Origin: West Bengal, practiced by the Patua (Chitrakar) community.
    • Spread: Also found in Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Bangladesh.
    • Format: Painted on scrolls (pati or patta) backed with old sari fabric.
    • Tools & Colors: Uses bamboo-goat hair brushes and vegetable dyes, fixed with gum.
    • Usage:
      • Scrolls used to narrate folk tales.
      • Focuses on Mangal Katha, especially in Kalighat and Kumartuli.
      • Practiced by both Hindu and Muslim Patuas.

     

    [UPSC 2015] Kalamkari painting refers to:

    Options: (a) a hand-painted cotton textile in South India* (b) a handmade drawing on bamboo handicrafts in North-East India (c) a block-painted woollen cloth in Western Himalayan region of India (d)  a hand-painted decorative silk cloth in North-Western India

     

  • Novel Microscope observes Molecular Motion

    Why in the News?

    Over a century after Einstein explained Brownian motion, California Institute of Technology (Caltech) scientists have created a powerful microscope that shows molecules moving in real time at an extremely tiny scale.

    Novel Microscope observes Molecular Motion

    What is Brownian Motion?

    • Definition: Random movement of tiny particles in a fluid due to constant collisions with surrounding molecules.
    • Significance: Validated the existence of atoms and molecules; explained by Albert Einstein in 1905.
    • Particle Behavior: Smaller particles move faster and more erratically; larger ones move slower.

    About Caltech Microscope:  

    • Resolution: Angstrom-level (1 Å = 0.0000000001 m).
    • Speed: Captures hundreds of billions of frames per second.
    • Advantage: Wide-field, single-shot imaging with no sample damage.
    • How It Works?
      • Setup: Fluorescent molecules in water illuminated by ultrafast lasers.
      • Light Capture: Scattered light directed via Digital Micromirror Device.
      • Streak Imaging: Light converted to electron patterns revealing molecular size.
      • Reading Size: Faster changes = smaller molecules; slower = larger.
    [UPSC 2000] Which one of the following can be used to confirm whether drinking water contains a gamma emitting isotope or not?

    Options: (a) Microscope (b) Lead plate (c) Scintillation counter* (d) Spectrophotometer

     

  • The scientist who made ‘mangroves’ a buzzword

    Why in the News?

    World Mangrove Day was observed on July 26. The occasion also recalled the pioneering role of M.S. Swaminathan in promoting mangrove conservation through initiatives like the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME), GLOMIS, and the fishbone canal method of restoration.

    Role of M.S. Swaminathan in mangrove conservation

    • As early as 1989, he advocated using mangroves for climate resilience in coastal areas.
    • Proposed developing salinity-tolerant crops (e.g., rice) using mangrove genes.
    • Played a key role in founding the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME) in 1990, promoting global knowledge exchange.
    • Co-authored the Charter for Mangroves, which was later included in the World Charter for Nature (1992) by the UN.
    • Led Community-Based Restoration in India through the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF).

    What is the ‘fishbone canal’ method? What are its advantages?

    The method mimics the natural branching pattern of rivers. It allows tidal waters to penetrate deep into degraded mangrove areas. Eg: In Tamil Nadu’s Pichavaram, fishbone canals revived previously stagnant mangrove zones, promoting natural seed dispersal.

    Advantages of the method

    1. Facilitates Natural Regeneration: By improving hydrology, it creates conditions suitable for natural mangrove seedling establishment without extensive manual planting. Eg: In Odisha’s Bhitarkanika, the method led to spontaneous growth of native mangrove species.
    2. Cost-Effective: Compared to large-scale planting, this method is less resource-intensive 
    3. It preserves ecosystem integrity.

    How have global and national initiatives reshaped mangrove management?

    • Shift Towards Community-Based Conservation: Focus has moved from government-led to community-driven models, recognising local knowledge and stakeholder participation. Eg: Eg: Sundarbans’ Joint Forest Committees empower villagers in conservation.
    • Integration with Climate Resilience Strategies: Mangroves are now seen as vital for disaster risk reduction and carbon sequestration. Eg: Indonesia’s “Mangroves for Coastal Resilience” project links mangrove conservation with coastal protection and blue carbon goals.
    • Technological Interventions and Scientific Planning: Use of GIS mapping, remote sensing, and hydrological modelling has made restoration more precise and scalable. Eg: In Andhra Pradesh, the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project used satellite data to identify degraded mangrove areas for targeted restoration.

    How did India’s mangrove policy evolve post-1980 ?

    • CRZ Inclusion (1991): Mangroves declared ecologically sensitive under CRZ Rules, restricting commercial activity.
    • Post-Tsunami Shift (2004): Indian Ocean Tsunami highlighted mangroves as bio-shields, leading to their inclusion in disaster risk and coastal zone policies.
    • Boost in Support (Post-2005): Initiatives like the National Coastal Mission and remote sensing-based mapping promoted monitoring and restoration.

    What are ISME and GLOMIS?

    • ISME (International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems) is a global non-profit organization founded in 1990 to promote the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of mangrove ecosystems through research, training, and international cooperation. It also offers technical support and capacity building for sustainable mangrove management.
    • GLOMIS (Global Mangrove Database and Information System), developed by ISME, is a centralized database that provides scientific data, GIS mapping, and case studies to support effective mangrove management and policymaking worldwide. GLOMIS serves as a database for mangrove species, restoration efforts, and GIS data.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Community-Based Restoration: Empower local communities through training, sustainable livelihood support, and participation in restoration using techniques like the ‘fishbone canal’ method for greater ecological success.
    • Leverage Technology and Global Networks: Use remote sensing, GIS, and platforms like GLOMIS for monitoring mangrove health, while collaborating with international bodies like ISME to adopt best global practices.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2019] Discuss the causes of depletion of mangroves and explain their importance in maintaining coastal ecology.

    Linkage: This question is directly and explicitly about mangroves, focusing on two key aspects: their depletion and their importance in maintaining coastal ecology. The fact that such a detailed question appeared in the examination signifies the recognized environmental importance and public awareness surrounding mangroves. A scientist’s work to popularize mangroves would logically contribute to this level of public and academic interest.

  • [pib] Lokpal of India

    Why in the News?

    The Lokpal of India, India’s central anti-corruption ombudsman, is moving forward to fill 81 approved posts on a deputation basis.

    Historical Context of the Lokpal:

    • Initial Proposal (1966): First proposed by the First Administrative Reforms Commission to tackle high-level corruption.
    • Legislative Failures (1971–2008): Multiple Lokpal Bills introduced in Parliament but none were passed.
    • Jan Lokpal Movement (2011): Nationwide agitation led by Anna Hazare demanded a powerful and independent anti-corruption body, catalyzing public and political support.
    • Enactment of Law (2013): The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was passed in 2013, providing for:
      • A Lokpal at the central level.
      • Lokayuktas in states.
    • Formal Establishment (2014): Lokpal of India was notified on January 16, 2014 under Section 3 of the Act.
    • Initial Functioning: Operated with encadred staff (mostly Central Secretariat Service); became functionally active only in 2019.
    • Organisational Restructuring (2024):
      • Due to rising complaints and staffing gaps, a new Organogram was approved in August–September 2024.
      • The Full Bench of Lokpal, using powers under Section 34, sanctioned 81 deputation posts.
      • These are stop-gap until regular recruitment begins under the upcoming Service Regulations, 2024.

    About Lokpal [vs. Lokayukta, A Comparative Overview]:

    Lokpal (Central) Lokayukta (State)
    Legal Basis Established under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 Also mandated under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 (Section 63); specifics vary by state
    Jurisdiction Covers central public servants, including the Prime Minister (with some exceptions), Ministers, MPs, and officials in Groups A–D Handles cases involving state public servants, such as Chief Ministers, Ministers, MLAs, and state officials
    Appointment Appointed by the President based on recommendations of a Selection Committee (PM, LoP, CJI, jurist) Appointed by the Governor; appointment process defined by state legislation
    Composition Chairperson (former CJI/SC judge/eminent person) + up to 8 members (50% from SC/ST/OBC/Women/Minorities) Composition varies by state; usually includes a Chairperson and members with similar qualifications
    Tenure 5 years or until the age of 70, whichever is earlier Defined by respective state laws
    Salary & Removal Chairperson = salary of CJI;

    Members = salary of SC Judges;

    Removal by President after SC inquiry

    		 Modelled on Lokpal Act; removal by Governor based on state-specific processes
    Powers
    • Investigates corruption under Prevention of Corruption Act
    • Can confiscate illegal assets
    • Can refer cases to CBI
    • Jurisdiction over NGOs receiving significant foreign or govt. funds
    • Submits reports to President, tabled in Parliament
    • Investigates under state anti-corruption laws
    • Can recommend prosecution/disciplinary actions
    • Handles complaints related to state schemes, contracts
    • Submits reports to Governor, tabled in State Legislature
    Recent Institutional Reform
    • In 2024, Lokpal approved a new Organogram and framed Service Regulations, 2024 for structured staffing.
    • As a stopgap, 81 posts are being filled via deputation.
    		 Varies across states; no uniform push for staff standardization as seen at the central level.

     

    [UPSC 2025] Consider the following statements about Lokpal:

    I. The power of Lokpal applies to public servants of India, but not to the Indian public servants posted outside India. II. The Chairperson or a Member shall not be a Member of the Parliament or a Member of the Legislature of any State or Union Territory, and only the Chief Justice of India, whether incumbent or retired, has to be its Chairperson. III. The Chairperson or a Member shall not be a person of less than forty-five years of age on the date of assuming office. IV. Lokpal cannot inquire into the allegations of corruption against a sitting Prime Minister of India.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) III only* (b) II and III (c) I and IV (d) None of the above statements is correct

    [2013] ‘A national Lokpal, however strong it may be, cannot resolve the problems of immorality in public affairs’. Discuss.

     

  • [pib] PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

    Why in the News?

    The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme has been officially launched as the PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY), effective from 1st August 2025.

    About PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY):

    • Objective: Promote formal employment and inclusive job creation.
    • Outlay: ₹99,446 crore (Aug 2025 – July 2027).
    • Aim:  3.5 crore new jobs, including 1.92 crore first-time entrants into the workforce.
    • Focus: Expanding EPFO coverage and supporting Viksit Bharat vision.
    • Sectoral Coverage: Open to all sectors, with special focus on manufacturing for long-term growth.

    PM Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana (PM-VBRY)

    Key Features:

    1. Incentives for Employees
      • Eligible: First-time EPFO-registered workers earning ≤ ₹1 lakh/month.
      • Benefit: 1-month EPF wage (max ₹15,000) in two parts — after 6 and 12 months.
      • Condition: Completion of a financial literacy programme; Part of the amount is locked in a savings scheme.
    1. Incentives for Employers
      • Applies to: New hires with salary ≤ ₹1 lakh/month.
      • Minimum hires: 2 (if firm <50 employees), 5 (if ≥50).
    • Incentive per employee/month:
      • ₹1,000 (wages ≤ ₹10,000)
      • ₹2,000 (₹10,001–₹20,000)
      • ₹3,000 (₹20,001–₹1 lakh)
    • Manufacturing sector: Extended benefits for 3rd & 4th years.
    1. Payment Mechanism
    • To employees: Direct Benefit Transfer via Aadhaar-based system.
    • To employers: Paid to PAN-linked bank accounts.
    [UPSC 2024] With reference to the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM) Yojana, consider the following statements:

    1. The entry age group for enrolment in the scheme is 21 to 40 years

    2. Age specific contribution shall be made by the beneficiary

    3. Each subscriber under the scheme shall receive a minimum pension of ₹ 3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60 years

    4. Family pension is applicable to the spouse and unmarried daughters

    Options: (a) 1 and 4 (b) 2 and 3* (c) 2 only (d) 1,2 and 4

     

  • Ramsar COP15 opens in Zimbabwe

    Why in the News?

    Delegates from 172 countries convened in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, for the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.

    Highlights of Ramsar COP15

    • Theme: Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future
    • Host Nation: Zimbabwe (holds presidency of the Ramsar Convention for 3 years)
    • Expected Outcome: Adoption of the Victoria Falls Declaration, a global framework to protect wetlands

    About the Ramsar Convention:

    • Adopted on: 2 February 1971, in Ramsar, Iran.
    • Objective: Conserve and ensure the wise use of wetlands globally.
    • Key Functions:
      • Identify wetlands of international importance.
      • Promote sustainable management practices.
      • Foster international cooperation in wetland conservation.
    • Governing Body:
      • Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP) meets every 3 years.
      • Reviews implementation, adopts site designations, budgets, and policy actions.
      • Includes member + non-member states, IGOs, and NGOs as observers.

    Criteria for Ramsar Site Designation:

    A wetland must meet at least one of the following 9 criteria:

    1. Unique or rare wetland type.
    2. Habitat for endangered, vulnerable, or endemic species.
    3. Crucial for migratory waterbirds.
    4. High ecological, hydrological, or biodiversity value.
    5. Supports ecosystem services (e.g., flood control, water purification).
    6. Provides cultural or spiritual value.
    7. Serves sustainable community livelihoods.
    8. Holds scientific or educational importance.
    9. Requires global cooperation due to threats.

    India and the Ramsar Convention:

    • Joined on: 1 February 1982.
    • First Ramsar Site: Chilika Lake (Odisha), 1981.
    • As of July 2025:
      • Total sites: 91
      • Total area: ~13.58 lakh hectares
      • % of India’s wetland area under Ramsar: ~10%
    • Top States: Tamil Nadu: 20 sites (highest); Uttar Pradesh: 10 sites
    • Note: India has never chaired a Ramsar COP session.

    Global Snapshot and Other Facts:

    • Total Members: 171 countries.
    • Leading Countries:
      • United Kingdom: 175 sites (most)
      • Mexico: 142 sites
      • Bolivia: Largest area (~1.48 lakh sq. km under protection)
    • World Wetlands Day: Celebrated on 2 February annually.
    • Montreux Record: Register for Ramsar sites under serious threat needing urgent conservation.
    [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Under Ramsar Convention, it is mandatory on the part of the Government of India to protect and conserve all the wetlands in the territory of India.

    2. The Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010 were framed by the Government of India based on the recommendations of Ramsar Convention.

    3. These Rules also encompass the drainage area or catchment regions of the wetlands as determined by the authority.

    Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only* (d) 1, 2 and 3